RM 800 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The RM 800 is a light-displacement cruiser that prioritizes speed and directional stability, largely due to its pronounced hard chines. These chines serve a dual purpose: they increase the boat's secondary stability when heeled and allow for a wider hull at the waterline without sacrificing performance. Most RM 800 hulls were delivered in a twin-keel (bi-quille) configuration with a single deep rudder. This setup makes the boat exceptionally well-suited for tidal environments, as it can dry out upright on its keels.

Under sail, the RM 800 feels more like a racing yacht than a traditional cruiser. The Lombard hull is optimized for reaching and downwind performance, where the flat sections aft allow the boat to plane earlier than its competitors. The cutter rig—a rarity on a 26-foot boat—provides a versatile sail plan, allowing the skipper to reduce canvas effectively in heavy weather by dropping the genoa and utilizing a staysail. Owners often report that the boat remains "stiff" and predictable in a breeze, a direct result of the high ballast ratio and the structural rigidity of the plywood-epoxy hull.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its performance-oriented hull, the interior of the RM 800 is surprisingly voluminous, taking full advantage of the boat's 3.00-meter beam. The use of plywood in construction allows for an open-plan layout that lacks the intrusive structural bulkheads found in fiberglass boats. The interior is characterized by the warmth of varnished okoume plywood, often left exposed to showcase the craftsmanship of the La Rochelle yard.

The layout typically features a large double berth forward that is open to the main saloon, creating a sense of space that belies its 8-meter length. A functional galley and a dedicated navigation station are positioned near the companionway. Because RM Yachts emphasizes natural light, the RM 800 features a signature panoramic coachroof window that provides a 180-degree view from the saloon—a feature that has become a staple of all subsequent RM models. While no significant factory variations were produced, later hulls benefited from updated interior finishes as the shipyard transitioned toward the more modern aesthetic found in the successor model, the RM 880.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

The RM 800 is a robust vessel, but its unique construction requires a specific maintenance regimen. Prospective buyers should prioritize the following areas during a survey:

• Epoxy Integrity: The hull’s longevity depends entirely on the integrity of the epoxy coating. Any deep gouges or cracks that penetrate the epoxy can allow moisture into the marine plywood, leading to localized rot. Areas around the deck hardware and the waterline should be checked for "soft spots" or discoloration.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: On twin-keel models, the leverage exerted by the keels is significant. Buyers should inspect the internal structural grid (the "varangues") for any signs of cracking or movement, particularly if the boat has been frequently dried out on hard or uneven ground.
• Window Sealing: The large forward-facing panoramic window is a highlight but can be a source of leaks. Inspect the sealant for UV degradation and check the interior wood below the window for water staining.
• Chainplates and Rigging: Given the age of the fleet, original standing rigging should be replaced. Furthermore, ensure the chainplate attachments to the plywood bulkheads are free of corrosion and that there is no "crushing" of the wood at the load points.

Community & Resources

RM owners are a dedicated group of enthusiasts who often keep their vessels for decades. The primary hub for technical support and social gathering is the AvRM (Association des Voiliers RM), a highly active French-based association. While much of the technical documentation is in French, the community provides invaluable insights into the specific maintenance needs of the plywood-epoxy hulls and maintains a database of modifications and upgrades for the RM 800 and its siblings.

The Verdict

The RM 800 is a connoisseur’s cruising boat, offering a blend of French offshore performance and artisanal wooden construction. It is a vessel for sailors who value speed and the ability to explore tidal estuaries over the generic interiors of mass-market sailboats.

Pros:

• Superior Thermal Insulation: The wood-epoxy hull is naturally warmer and quieter than fiberglass.
• Tidal Versatility: The twin-keel configuration allows for easy beaching and cheaper maintenance.
• Design Pedigree: A genuine Marc Lombard hull that punches well above its weight class in speed.

Cons:

• Maintenance Sensitivity: Requires immediate attention to any hull damage to prevent plywood rot.
• Limited Availability: With only 24 hulls built, finding a well-maintained example on the secondary market can be difficult.
• Resale Complexity: The unique construction method sometimes requires an educated buyer or a specialist surveyor.